Autopsy Requirements
In most cases after a child has died, an autopsy will be required by law. An autopsy is a thorough examination used to determine the cause and manner of death. Depending on the state where the death occurred, autopsies may be conducted by a medical examiner or a coroner. There are differences between medical examiners and coroners, but both groups are subject to the National Association of Medical Examiners (NAME), which certifies and provides accreditation to the offices conducting autopsies.
The early steps of the autopsy process, including transport to the medical examiner/coroner’s office, may occur rapidly, with little notice for families. Families whose religion prohibits an autopsy may lodge or communicate these religious preferences, however medical examiners/coroners have the ability to overrule such religious preferences if “public necessity” is established. The autopsy itself may also already be completed before those religious preferences are regarded.
Autopsy Timeline
Preliminary autopsy reports and death certificates are often issued within a few days, allowing the decedent to be transported to a chosen funeral home. However, final autopsy reports and official death certificates may take weeks, months, or even years to complete, depending on administrative and logistical challenges that vary across jurisdictions. The waiting period for final reports can be agonizing for those who are grieving, and it may be further complicated by misinformation or unrealistic expectations shared by professionals. It’s not uncommon for the absence of these documents over time to deepen feelings of distress—especially when families are hoping the reports will provide clarity about what happened. At the same time, some may dread the arrival of the autopsy report, particularly if they would prefer not to receive it at all.
Results of an Autopsy
In cases of sudden or unexpected infant and child death, final reports may sometimes list the cause or manner of death as 'undetermined,' which can intensify the grief experienced by families. The content of these reports may also be distressing, particularly if they include clinical details about how the autopsy was performed. Additionally, the language is often highly technical and intended for medical professionals, making it difficult for families to understand. If any part of the report is unclear, a pediatrician or another trusted medical provider may be able to offer clarification. In some cases, medical examiners or coroners may also be available to answer questions directly.
Advocating for Yourself
It’s important for those awaiting an autopsy to utilize their support system, which may include therapists, loved ones, medical professionals, or religious communities.
You always have the right to advocate for yourself and your child, and can call your medical examiner/coroner as often as desired for updates on the autopsy status. Make sure that the office is aware of any changes to mailing addresses or contact information, and expressed wishes in terms of receiving (or not receiving) the report.